The Spa at Breedon Priory

First Impressions

The Spa at Breedon Priory is a contemporary, no-expense-spared glass-fronted spa sunk into the landscape in peaceful Derbyshire. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook an impeccably landscaped gardens and 24 acres of countryside in the charming village of Melbourne (not of Australian fame), with its boutique shops and Georgian architecture.

What's on offer?

Park across the road from the two-storey, purpose-built spa and walk down the few steps that lead to reception. Flooded with natural light due to tall ceilings, a central Italian panoramic fireplace sets the scene, while wooden dressers display a range of products by Temple Spa, Tribe517, Proverb Skin, Germaine de Capuccini and Mii Cosmetics.

We were warmly greeted by the spa receptionist and invited to take a seat on one of the comfy sofas. Our Spa Host, Antonio, introduced himself, presenting us with a welcome cup of hot chocolate and a cloth which expanded on contact with water to create a cleansing ritual.

After taking us on a personal tour of the spa, Antonio left us in the spacious changing room with its pale wood floor, pale grey metro wall tiles and lemon-hued walls. Open your allocated sage green locker with your wristband; you’ll find a stone-coloured robe, a large towel and flip-flops inside.

There are large leather benches or private cubicles in which to change, as well as three toilets – with baskets of freshly-rolled flannels to dry your hands - and five showers stocked with Temple Spa shampoo, conditioner and bodywash. Try out the vast range of complimentary Temple Spa products at the vanity area; Cloud Nine hairdryers and straighteners are on hand for post-spa preening.

A door from here leads to the Wellbeing Suite; awaken the senses in the experience shower with its tropical rain, cool rain and cold mist settings, before warming up in the Himalayan Salt Sauna with its large window overlooking the spa garden. Get toasty in the Herbal Sauna and Steam Rooms (of which there are two of each) - with their heady, rejuvenating aroma - before braving the ice fountain.

Breedon Priory’s Spa Garden is accessed through double doors from the large light-filled relaxation area and will take your breath away. Sink into one of two sunken infinity pools or get horizontal on one of many cushioned loungers and soak in the serene views across the immaculately landscape gardens and beyond. Spa hosts mill around to refresh towels and take drink orders to be delivered direct to your lounger.

The large, grey-tiled alfresco thermal area has two infinity pools: the first for relaxing - with space for 16 people to sit comfortably around the outside - and a vitality pool with massage jets and swan neck fountains.

After a dip, we walked down a few steps - passed the covered snug with firepit and cosy blankets for cooler days - to the spa garden with its lake at the far end, and circular space with more loungers and firepit to the left. Ducks wandering around the lawn simply added to the charm.

On the first floor, you’ll find the mani/pedi room, six treatment rooms - named after resident trees – and a dedicated post-treatment relaxation room with more garden views. The low-lit Slumber Room has 10 curved beds divided by flowy screens.

Tell us about the treatments

We tried the Proverb Skin Workout Facial (60 minutes, £107).

My therapist, Natalie, met me in the treatment waiting lounge and led me down the corridor to a warm, low-lit treatment room with a comfy chair in the corner.

Natalie explained the steps of the intensive deep tissue facial before leaving the room so I could disrobe and settle down onto the heated treatment bed, lying face up.

After asking me to take three deep breaths, Natalie began the treatment with a few body stretches and holds: my body relaxing immediately in response.

The facial commenced with a double cleanse using Proverb Cleanse & Shave Nutrient Mud, followed by a spritz of Hydrating Toner. Natalie then applied an Energising Facial Scrub, focusing on the build-up of dry skin around my nose, before removing with hot towels.

Using Proverb Elite Superfood Facial Serum – a heavenly-scented anti-ageing oil chockful of vegetable, fruit and seed oils – Natalie performed an incredibly firm and sculpting facial massage using targeted massage techniques to lift, contour and tone the skin; her hands seemed almost mechanical in their precision. Turning my head on its side, she worked deep into my neck and jaw, instantly releasing the tension in my jawline and around my sinuses. A cold Gua Sha tool was then used to scrape the skin; icy cold Cryo globes cooled and soothed.

Next up: she painted on a face mask; while this worked its magic, she performed a blissful pressure point scalp massage.

The treatment concluded with a slick serum and an application of Muscle Ease Cooling Gel to my neck and shoulders.

Natalie then led me to the sun-lit relaxation area, handed me a glass of water and a little wooden pot of ice-cold grapes to rejuvenate (a nice touch) and left me to snuggle under a cosy blanket and admire the views through the floor-ceiling glass windows.

Peeking in the mirror, the results were immediately obvious (and very welcome): my skin looked glow-y and flushed like it had had a workout; my jawline more refined. Impressive stuff.

My spa partner - who had tried the Proverb 360 Stretch, Align & Deep Massage (60 minutes, £107) - was equally impressed by her therapist, Mandie, who managed to stretch and release her stubborn deep-seated knots into submission.

You’ll find Temple Spa, Tribe517, Proverb Skin and Germaine de Capuccini treatments at Breedon Priory. There's a keen focus on holistic, naturally inspired experiences for mind and body wellness. The Spa also offers manis and pedis by Pinks Boutique.

Food Facts

During a spa day, you can dine en robe in The Terrace Restaurant which, as the name suggests, looks out over the beautiful garden through floor-to-ceiling glass. This light and airy space has a sky-high ceiling adorned with a trio of twinkly silver spherical hanging lights, marble-effect tables and a mix of upholstered or leather chairs in blue hues. Staff expertly mix cocktails behind a white wave textured bar with beige stools and three striking black pendant lights above. We made a beeline for a table outside on the terrace on our visit, taking full advantage of the autumn sun.

Our delicious three-course lunch began with an amuse-bouche: homemade warm brioche served with the most spectacular dip made from burnt courgette, whipped feta, lemon and chilli dip. We would have happily eaten this for every course.

For starters, we opted for Isle of Wight heirloom tomatoes with (even more of that) delicious, whipped feta and sourdough; our spa partner: the salt cod croquette with tangine sauce and lemon & chive yoghurt. We followed this with two mains of pan-seared salmon with crushed new potatoes with French green beans and tomato hollandaise, with a panache of vegetables in garlic and lemon butter on the side. A glass of Provence Rose was the perfect accompaniment.

For dessert – and do leave room if you can - we tried the English strawberry Eton Mess with pink peppercorn meringue, Chantilly cream and strawberry coulis. As spa lunches go, this was noteworthy.

We loved / we didn't love

We loved

The purpose-built spa has been exquisitely designed; every single detail has been considered: your shoulders will drop as soon as you step through the door.

The Spa Garden: sink into the infinity-edged relaxation pool and gaze across the beautifully manicured gardens. Keep an eye out for the family of longhorn cows that pop down to the lake to hydrate.

The spa hosts are next level - Antonio was constantly on hand to make our spa day as serene and stress-free as possible.

We didn’t love

Having to drive home - however, word is that luxury lodges are in future plans, meaning spa-goers will be able to extend their me-time and stay overnight.

Who do you think would like it?

Couples: will love the Hideaway for VIP private spa-ing for two - think outdoor bubbly copper tub with complimentary fizz, giant egg chair to curl up in, firepit, mini bar and your own private lounge.

Solo spa-goers: with a max of 40 guests you’ll find a beautiful private space to curl up with a good book.

Treatment lovers: from face sculpting facials (hello cheekbones) to holistic massages, spa treatments here are top notch from therapists who truly know their stuff.

What bubble rating did you give this spa?

Once again, we awarded The Spa at Breedon Priory the highest Good Spa Guide Bubble Rating of 5 Bubble Luxury for its exquisite design, good facilities, landscaped gardens, highly skilled therapists and top-class service. It’s a Spa Spy favourite.

Scarlet Spy visited in September 2025 and awarded it 5 Bubble Luxury.